A Shakespearian character (York in Henry VI Part 2) says “Say as you think, and speak it from your souls….” This is a sentiment that is very admirable…most of the time. Certainly on essential matters, being diplomatic must give way to earnest and honest expression. But sometimes we’d rather not hear sharp opinion. Today I was removing an old toilet seat in our bathroom and replacing it with a new one. I was on my hands and knees while a long-time friend (some thirteen years my junior) was looking on along with my wife Kathy, who is also younger than me. While I was struggling some to screw the new seat in place, my wife on viewing the scene blithely described me as being “elderly.” She meant it in a funny way, but I suddenly felt kinship with the toilet. I asked Kathy to please not call me that again until I get white hair. And, with the help of Youthair, that day may never come. So, “say as you think, and speak it from your souls”—just remember in the process to be kind to old farts.
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